Caffeine affects everyone differently. Some individuals may experience anxiety, heart palpitations, or frequent urination when consuming too much caffeine. However, research suggests that caffeine may have heart health benefits, including reducing the risk of death from heart disease. What’s the science behind it? Let’s explore the details below.

The Association Between Coffee Consumption and Risk Reduction of Heart Disease

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Coronary artery disease, a common form of heart disease, results from damage to blood vessels due to cholesterol plaque buildup.

When plaque attaches to the blood vessels, they harden and narrow over time. This narrowing restricts blood flow to the heart, reducing its supply of oxygen-rich blood.

Many individuals with coronary artery disease may not notice their heart condition until plaque buildup leads to blood clots. These clots can block blood flow to the heart, potentially causing a heart attack.

Research suggests that coffee consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease-related deaths. Individuals who drink half a cup to three cups of coffee daily are found to have a lower risk of death from heart disease and stroke compared to those who don't consume coffee. The study further noted that coffee drinkers have lower arterial stiffness indices.

Another study found that consuming up to 600 mg of coffee daily may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (affecting the heart and blood vessels). Experts believe this is due to caffeine's cardioprotective properties.

The study highlighted that caffeine reduces the production of PCSK9, a protein that can deactivate LDL (bad cholesterol) receptors in the liver. When this protein is inhibited, more LDL receptors are available, allowing the liver to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

What Is a Safe Caffeine Intake for Heart Health?

Coffee is a widely enjoyed beverage across many groups. Despite the potential heart health benefits of coffee, it’s important to limit your caffeine intake, particularly if you're sensitive to caffeine. Some individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, palpitations, or restlessness after drinking coffee.

Experts recommend a daily caffeine intake of 400 mg, equivalent to about 4-5 small cups of coffee. Individual reactions to caffeine vary, but consuming more than this amount can lead to side effects, such as:

• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Restlessness or anxiety
• Irritability
• Frequent urination
• Heart palpitations
• Muscle tremors

According to Medical News Today, excessive caffeine consumption may also raise blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease. If you have an existing heart condition and are considering coffee for heart health, it's best to consult a doctor first.

While coffee may contribute to reducing heart disease risk, it’s not the only solution. Quitting smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are additional ways to prevent heart disease.

For any concerns about heart health, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider or use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download via the App Store and Play Store.

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